Australian Ports and Waterways Minister Paul McLeay heralded
the first operations at the Port of Newcastle’s new $25 million
Mayfield No.4 Berth as a sign of continued confidence in the
economic future of the Hunter Region.
“Mayfield No.4 Berth on the former BHP Steelworks site is
the first infrastructure project to be completed at Mayfield and is
a welcome asset for Newcastle Port Corporation,” McLeay said.
McLeay announced the commissioning of the new berth
following the arrival of the heavy lift ship, Victoria Scan, which in
January unloaded two 250-tonne transformers for Bayswater
Power Station.
“Mayfield No.4 greatly expands the capability of the port to
handle a variety of cargo as it is strategically located and
accessible by road and future rail connection,” McLeay said.
“This development reinforces the message that the NSW
Government is committed to delivering first class infrastructure
that supports economic growth.”
The 265-metre long berth is located on 90 hectares of
riverfront land managed by Newcastle Port Corporation. The
facility consists of 3,630m2 of wharf apron and 8,745m2 of
hardstand for cargo handling, storage or an assembly area.
Minister for the Hunter, Jodi McKay, said the Mayfield site was
an important development for port-related trade.
“The opening of the new Mayfield port is great news for the
Hunter, benefiting workers and families with continued economic
growth,” McKay said.
“Future developments at the Port of Newcastle will allow the
Hunter to continue to lead economic growth in NSW.
“These developments will also allow the Port to continue to
provide the community and our international trading partners
with first class services.”
Newcastle Port Corporation CEO, Gary Webb, said the facility
had been constructed by BMD Constructions Pty Ltd after the
company was selected in a competitive tendering process.
“BMD Constructions has delivered a first-class asset on time
and on budget,” Webb said.
“Recycled materials from the former iron ore berth have
been used in the construction of the new facility, including 4,000
tonnes of recycled concrete to save more than $100,000 on the
cost of equivalent new fill material.
“About 240 tonnes of steel reinforcement and steel rail line
has also been recycled by the contractor or sold for other uses.”
An official function will be held in the near future to recognize
Mayfield No.4 Berth as being the first new port infrastructure on
the former steelworks site.